Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica

11-09-2025Weekly ReflectionFr. Fred Adamson

Dear Friends in Christ,

This weekend we continue our Mission Engagement – Together in Christ reflections, and we also celebrate the Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica in Rome. You may wonder, “Why do we celebrate the dedication of a church so far away?” Because the Lateran Basilica is the Cathedral Church of Rome, the mother and head of all churches in the world. It was dedicated in the year 324 and served as the residence of the popes for over a thousand years.

While that community has nearly seventeen centuries of history and we have just over thirty-one years, both stand as sacred places where God dwells among His people. The feast reminds us that a church building is not only a structure of stone and wood, but a place of encounter with the living Christ. Within its walls, hearts are renewed, souls are saved and the Body of Christ—the community of believers—is built up and sent forth into the world.

A beautiful church that stands empty will eventually crumble; but a church filled with faith, prayer, and love becomes a living temple of the Holy Spirit. Today’s readings remind us that we ourselves are God’s building—living stones in the temple of His grace. This truth ties perfectly into our mission focus: to worship God, share the Good News of Jesus Christ and build an active community of faith that serves, welcomes and renews others in Christ.

Again we renew our commitment to the mission of Jesus Christ here at Saint Bernard of Clairvaux. Each of us, individuals and families alike, is invited to prayerfully take part in the life and mission of our parish. I am truly grateful for the many ways the light of Christ shines through your service, prayer and generosity. Your ongoing support makes it possible for us to share the Gospel and reach beyond what we could ever imagine. We do not do this alone — we do it Together in Christ!

Next Sunday, November 16, we will celebrate our Parish Harvest Festival from 12:00 noon to 3:00 p.m. on the parish grounds (south parking lot). This joyful event is a wonderful opportunity for our parish family to come together in thanksgiving for God’s blessings and for the gift of one another. There will be food, music, games, bingo, a petting zoo, bouncy houses for the kids and fun for all ages! Ministries and volunteers will host activities that showcase the spirit and vitality of our community.

Please note that parking will be limited due to the setup. Overflow parking will be available at the high school just north of the parish, with shuttles running to and from the morning Masses and the festival. If you are able, consider parking there or walking a short distance so we can reserve closer spaces for those who may need them.

Let us celebrate the joy of being a missionary parish—a people Together in Christ—sharing the love of Jesus and making Him known. Invite your family, neighbors and friends to join in the celebration. Let our parish grounds be filled with gratitude, laughter and the light of faith.